A 4-vector formalism for classical mechanics

Revista Brasileira de Ensino de Física

J. Güémez¹  M. Fiolhais² 

[1] Universidad de Cantabria;Universidade de Coimbra;

关键词: classical mechanics;    thermodynamics;    Minkowski four-vectors;    physics teaching;   

DOI  :  10.1590/S1806-11172013000400010

来源: DOAJ

【 摘 要 】

We present a matrix formalism, inspired by the Minkowski four-vectors of special relativity, useful to solve classical physics problems related to both mechanics and thermodynamics. The formalism turns out to be convenient to deal with exercises involving non-conservative forces and production or destruction of mechanical energy. On the other hand, it provides a framework to treat straightforwardly changes of inertial reference frames, since it embodies the Principle of Relativity. We apply the formalism to a few cases to better show how it works.

【 授权许可】

Unknown